Who’s the Cat of the Week this week?

Today, we’re diving deep into the mesmerizing world of a unique breed that’s both playful and fond of water: the Bengal cat!

Origin

So, where does this captivating breed hail from?

While the Bengal cat calls the USA home, it’s actually a hybrid, born from a crossing between the exotic Asian Leopard Cat and our beloved domestic cat. The result of the offspring? A beautifully spotted hybrid that seamlessly blends the wild with the tame.

Now, when you look at a Bengal, you’re actually seeing markings of the majestic Asian Leopard Cat. From their distinctive spots, rosettes, and marbling to the arrowhead imprints, the resemblance is abnormal!

As for its name, the Bengal cat was lustrated in 1974. Two absorbing theories float around this:

1. A man named Bill Engler played a role in naming this marvel, though the specifics remain shrouded in mystery.

2. Another whispers of a Latin term for the Asian Leopard Cat as the influence.

Next up:

Appearance

Delving into their stunning appearance, each Bengal is a masterpiece. Think of a canvas painted with spots, marbling, and unique patterns, similar to the individuality of a tiger’s stripes. Their burly figure sets them apart, making them larger than the usual housecats we’re well-known with.

As for their coat colors, we have:

1. Ash/Charcoal: A subtle gray hinting at elegance.

2. Nut Brown: A silky brown palette covered with dark patches.

3. Snow White: Think snow leopards, pure and peerless!

4. Silver White: A silvery gloss augmented by deeper spots.

5. Marble: Typical Bengal – but remember, every Bengal is unique!

And those charming eyes? They glint in shades of gold, green, or yellow.

Moving on to their peculiar personality:

Personality

Did you know Bengals are aquatic aficionados? They might just be your perfect bath buddy! And if you’re yearning for a chat, these furballs won’t disappoint—they’re among the world’s most vocal cats! 

But a word of caution: Bengals seek company. Planning to bring one home? Consider pairing them up with another cat or even a dog, as they get along well with canine companions. Their inquiry knows no bounds, and their wits are off the charts! If your morning alarm betokens breakfast, your Bengal will be your new “snooze” button, reminding you just a tad early.

Diet

Bengal cats are like any cat. They shall not have milk, even as kittens, because they need their mother’s milk. As mentioned before, there are milk replacers for them if you find an orphan.

They will NOT eat chocolate, or any dairy products. Additionally, avocados, grapes, raisins, and yeast. Learn more in this episode of our channel:

Last but not least:

Health Problems

Bengal cats are usually very healthy, but there is absolutely, positively NO such thing as a cat that can’t catch disease. The top six diseases to look out for are:

• Respiratory Infections
• Heart Disease (very common in most cats).
• Kidney Disease
• Hip Dysplasia
• Eye Diseases
• Liver Disease

If you want to keep your Bengal healthy, you’d better run them on a good diet, give them access to the sun like a plant, a clean environment, space and time to run and play, socialize them with humans, and minimized chances of stress.

Ok.

Two quick tips before we wrap up:

1. Every Bengal is unique—while some love to snuggle, others might prefer their space. Ensure you know your Bengal’s preference before adopting.

2. Treat them with the respect they deserve. They might exhibit dog-like qualities, but their feline essence is paramount.

And that’s the Bengal cat in all its glory!

Until next time!

P.S.: Here is a video on our channel about them: